The Easter Bank Holiday Is Here, Here Are a Few Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe

The Easter bank holiday is almost upon us. We have two whole extra days off work, we can eat chocolate (the extra calories don't count, right?) and we have more time to spend with loved ones. This year the weather is set to be warm across the UK so the world (or at least country) is our oyster.

Every year vets report a rise in dogs visiting surgeries in need of emergency treatment so here's a recap on four Easter treats & things to avoid.

Remember Chocolate is Toxic, Even Small Amounts

We all know chocolate is bad for dogs, yet over 188,000 dog owners admitted to feeding it to their dogs last year. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs so make sure you keep your chocolate eggs out of reach. Even small amounts can cause convulsions, heart problems, hyperexcitability and fits - it's just not worth the risk to your dog.

Hey, the best part about this is you can have it all to yourself!

Keep Hot Cross Buns Out of Reach

Hot cross buns which have sultanas, raisins or currants are dangerous because of the dry fruit content. Similar to grapes, if consumed these dried fruits could cause severe kidney failure.

Although it's not really known what it is in them that cause them to be toxic to some dogs, they have been known to take dogs lives.

These Dangers Lurk in Easter Basket & Flowers

Easter is a time to celebrate, whether you're religiously inclined and that's your main focus or whether you're celebrating the time spent with loved ones, you may find yourself visiting friends and family taking flowers or potted plants, or even Easter baskets with you.

Beware of the dangers of lilies and daffodils (particularly the bulbs of the yellow flower). If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of either flower, contact your vet immediately.

Aside from chocolate dangers, if your Easter basket has fake green grass inside make sure your pet can't reach to nibble. According to Village Vet, "When your cat or dog ingests Easter grass, it can become anchored around the base of the tongue or stomach, rendering it unable to pass through the intestines. It can lead to expensive abdominal surgery."

Be Tick Vigilant on Walks

As the weather warms up (Met Office experts we're holding you to this!) so does the risk of ticks.

Bayer Animal Health recently told DogMagazine.net that, "The Dermacentor reticulatus tick which is now found in the UK is capable of transmitting the potentially fatal disease, babesiosis, to dogs.

"Although this disease is extremely rare in the UK, the favourable spring climate will allow all ticks to start feeding earlier and for longer throughout the year, causing irritation and discomfort to our pets if allowed to bite. The potential increase in tick activity may also lead to a greater risk from more established diseases, such as Lyme disease, which can also affect humans."

If you suspect your dog has been at risk of any of the dangers mentioned here, contact your vet immediately.

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